Seven Great Blue Herons stood in the rookery tree near the entrance to the community college. Some stood over nests, but none appeared to be sitting on eggs just yet. The usually abundant Canada Geese had abandoned the pond. The colorful Wood Ducks of two days ago were gone, but a few Mallards and Gadwall swam in the creek. Soon, the Herons will nest. Slender legs on nests Feathers warm against the rain Make place for futurehttp://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Great_Blue_Heron/idTwo Great Blue Herons kept their lonely vigil along the shore at Chickamauga Dam. They had folded necks and kept their heads tucked close to bodies against the cold. Their companions lined the railroad bridge overlooking the Tennessee River. Occasionally, one stretched and moved as if preparing to take flight. Each who did so settled back in on the roost. A small flock of gulls circled the upstream from the dam. One by one they dove to the surface. Occasionally one would land and briefly float downstream while searching for a food.. Circle cold water Wings aloft then down to land Shining fish in beak